Bintulu Port development model can be emulated to strengthen national logistics network

Bintulu Port. Source: Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas)

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, June 23: Sarawak’s approach in the development and management of Bintulu Port could be emulated in other regions as part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s logistics network and enhance export capacity.

In a TVS news, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said the port, which was recently handed over to the Sarawak government, could be viewed as a model for improving coordination between State and federal authorities in upgrading key infrastructure and boosting operational efficiency.

Sarawak’s experience demonstrates how strategic collaboration can help unlock greater economic potential, particularly in logistics and trade.

“The approach to port development in Sarawak also highlights the importance of infrastructure development in strengthening the country’s export capacity for natural resources.

“If we do not prioritise port development, it will become an issue. Recently, Bintulu Port was handed over to the Sarawak government for management, and we will provide support. The same applies to Sabah, which already has its own ports.

“So, if there are plans for expansion, they should be discussed with the federal government. We can also see that developments in Sabah and Sarawak ultimately benefit the federal government within the context of the Federation,” he told the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was responding to an additional question from Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal (Warisan–Semporna), who raised concerns over the export of natural resources and logistical challenges in Sabah, which he said involve complex procedures, increasing costs and reducing market competitiveness.

Johari also urged Malaysia to move beyond exporting raw materials and instead focus on basic processing to enhance value addition and strengthen industrial capability.

“Natural resources should not be exported in raw form. We need to carry out basic processing. A good example is palm oil.
“Palm oil is a classic case of successful transformation. It has become one of Malaysia’s highest-value export commodities. Although we produce only about 20 million metric tonnes, it generates around RM120 billion in export value.

“Palm oil products, both food and non-food, are derived from this industry,” he said.

He added that 20 to 30 years ago, Malaysia primarily exported crude palm oil (CPO), but has since evolved into producing a wide range of higher-value downstream products. — DayakDaily